Monthly Archives: August 2009

If you are asked to define “compromise” and “sacrifice”, what would you say? Are they the same or different?

Compromise is about lowering our demands and expectations on people or the things we want, while sacrifice is about giving up something in order to get something even bigger. So, which one gives you greater happiness? Let’s examine both a bit more.

The word “compromise” is an interesting concept. Somewhere along our lives, many of us would have come to believe that compromise is the only way to keep the peace and stay happy. The paradoxical reality is that compromise causes frustrations and unhappiness simply because you cannot have your cake and eat it too! Like someone has said, “If you limit your choices only to what seem possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want and all that is left is a compromise.”

The word ‘sacrifice’ is a more empowering word. To me, it is the best and only way to find peace and happiness. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not advocating sainthood or martyrdom in your quest to find and live a life of happiness, purpose and meaning. Really, it is about what you are willing to GIVE UP or sacrifice in order to have the life you want.”

Ask those who are successful in life and they can narrate details of sacrifices they have had to make to achieve their dreams or goals. This is because anyone who is serious about having something different in his/her life has to be 100% committed. Anything less is a compromise.

Powerful Questions:• How often do you have to choose between “compromise” or “sacrifice” as defined above?• What does it involve?• What will make you decide if it is important enough to pursue it?• What action/s will you take? • What action/s will you not take?